Leisure

Local play area welcomes families following major transformation

27th December 2025

Heather Vale Play Area in Hasland, has been transformed with upgraded new equipment. Designed to suit children from ages three to twelve, the play area includes a toddler play unit with steps, slides and a mini climbing net. Along with agility equipment for older children plus sensory panels and ground activities to support inclusive play.

Part of Chesterfield Borough Council’s ambitious parks and play delivery plan, which was launched in 2023, aims to improve play areas across the borough.

Councillor Amanda Serjeant, Chesterfield Borough Council’s Deputy Leader, said:

“We recognise how play areas form an important part of every community in our borough, providing a space for children to develop and build confidence but also creating a place where parents can socialise together.

“Through our parks and play delivery plan we identified the play areas across the borough which were most in need of an upgrade and over the last few years we have been working hard to refurbish these facilities and improve local play spaces.

“I’m delighted that we’ve been able to carry out these works in Hasland before Christmas. I know this will be a great asset for the community to enjoy and we’ve already received some great feedback from local families.

“Creating these spaces helps ensure that Chesterfield is a fantastic borough to live and raise a family and we’ll be investing even more into our play areas over the next few years to ensure that every family can access a welcoming and safe play area in their neighbourhood.”

Continued upgrades are being planned at Barnes Road in Hady and in Duckmanton in the first half of 2026. Further improvements across the borough are also being planned.

The refurbishment of Heather Vale began on site in late November 2025 and is funded through combined council and grant funding. With funding provided from both the Suez communities fund and from East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) from funding provided by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).

Residents who visit are being asked to complete a survey about the upgrade, the short survey will help plan future improvements across the borough and access further grant funding for other play spaces. To complete the survey please visit: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/heather-vale-play-area

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Home, Leisure, Stay

A calmer Christmas and New Year in Chesterfield

22nd December 2025

Hopefully, your gifts are wrapped and plans sorted, so you can relax into Christmas and enjoy the simple pleasures Chesterfield offers. Remember to take the time to stop and take note during the busy season because our town centre looks so magical in December. Our twinkling lights and festive art trail welcome you to our shops, cafes and market tipi.

And when the New Year arrives, why not try to keep that gentler pace? January offers a chance to pause, breathe, and reconnect.

Instead of chasing big resolutions, I plan to focus on people and experiences that bring joy. A quiet stroll together works wonders, and Chesterfield’s winter walks – like Linacre Reservoirs, Chesterfield Canal or the Five Pits Trail – make it easy to enjoy frosty landscapes close to home.

If you’re looking for cosy indoor moments, drop into our friendly town centre cafes.

For somewhere different, visit Board and Bean for a winter’s afternoon of games and conversation. They hosted us recently during the Social Fuse Festival, our annual event that celebrates community creativity and purpose-driven innovation. It was the drop-in space for meeting new people and sharing ideas. Board and Bean creates a hub for creativity and community, and you’ll feel welcome from the moment you walk in.

For something cultural, why not enjoy a show?

The Winding Wheel Theatre hosts a fantastic programme, from festive pantomimes to live music and comedy. January brings a mix of music and comedy to brighten up winter evenings – from The Ultimate Classic Rock Show to Jason Manford. Check out what’s on and make a night of it.

I’m also planning to get crafty in the New Year.

Junction Arts’ festivals, workshops, and events give people the opportunity to be creative, learn new skills, and build stronger communities. I loved stepping out of my comfort zone at a lantern-making workshop recently. It reminded me that creativity is about enjoyment rather than perfection. Later in 2026, my team will work with Junction Arts to host our own workshops when we reopen the Rectory. I’m looking forward to plenty of creative challenges before then.I loved stepping out of my comfort zone at a lantern-making workshop recently. It reminded me that creativity is about enjoyment rather than perfection. Later in 2026, my team will work with Junction Arts to host our own workshops when we reopen the Rectory. I’m looking forward to plenty of creative challenges before then.

As the New Year begins, instead of piling on the pressure, why not choose one small thing that brings you joy? Meet a friend for a warm drink, wander through our market, try a new craft, or book tickets for a local performance. Chesterfield offers plenty of ways to slow down, connect, and feel part of something real.

Discover local events, theatre listings, walking routes, and more ways to enjoy our community at https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Christmas, Home, Leisure

Over £500,000 funding awarded to local community groups

20th December 2025

Over £500,000 in grant funding has now been awarded to local community groups and voluntary organisations across Chesterfield, helping local projects make a real difference in the borough.

As part of the Community Grants Fund, launched by Chesterfield Borough Council in 2023, the latest round of funding has seen £75,282 shared between 19 local groups. Since the scheme began, a total of £527,911 has been awarded through 103 successful applications, supporting projects that strengthen neighbourhoods, promote wellbeing, and bring people together.

Already, the grants are helping to deliver projects across the borough, from funding foodbanks and community hubs, to supporting local events and helping people back into work. They are also enabling initiatives that encourage greener, more sustainable choices and reduce the borough’s environmental impact.

The latest organisations to receive funding include:

Barrow Hill Community Trust
Transition Chesterfield
Don Catchment Rivers Trust
St John Ambulance
Friends of Eastwood Park
African Caribbean Community Association
Duckmanton Miners Welfare Centre
Mastin Moor Miners Welfare
Ozbox
b:friend
The Friends of Pearson Park
Chesterfield Foodbank
Parish Centre Stonegravels
Poolsbrook Club Community Committee
Friends of Thistle Park, Brimington
Kakou CIC
Friends of Stand Road Park
Pain Inspired
Community Development Chesterfield

Kakou CIC, one of our Chesterfield Champions, will use the funding to create a kitchen garden for The Rectory Community Pub, helping to bring the community together.

Kakou’s Ann Fomukong-Boden and Destination Chesterfield Board member said:

“We’re absolutely delighted to receive this funding for The Rectory Kitchen Garden Project. This funding means we can turn our pub’s beer garden into something much more, a thriving kitchen garden that not only supports our pub kitchen but also brings the community together.

“Fresh produce grown here will go straight into our meals, while our gardening club will help people connect, learn, and support their wellbeing. It’s a chance to grow food, friendships, and a stronger, more sustainable future for The Rectory and our community.”

Elsewhere, Friends of Thistle Park will be using the grant funding to replace surfacing in the play area that has become worn over time, ensuring that local families can continue to enjoy the much-loved park in Brimington.

The chair of Friends of Thistle Park said:

“We are thrilled to receive this funding, which will make a real difference to the community. The resurfacing will enhance the play area into a space that children can enjoy all year round, and we are grateful to Chesterfield Borough Council for their support.

“We will continue to work towards transforming the park for the benefit of local residents and visitors, and this project marks an important step in their ongoing commitment to improving community facilities.”

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice Chair of Destination Chestrfield, said:

“We really are lucky to have so many community groups and voluntary organisations here in Chesterfield that can have a huge impact on our local communities – and we’re really proud that we’re able to support them through this funding.

“It has allowed us to support so many groups and organisations that work tirelessly to deliver projects and initiatives and make a real difference to the lives of local people.

“It has been great to hear from the groups about how the funding is being used so far and the impact that it is having on local residents, and I am looking forward to hearing more about how the latest groups and organisations are using the grants to make a difference in our community.”

Funding for the grants scheme was successfully secured from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), together with money raised through the Community Infrastructure Levy Neighbourhood Portion (CIL).

The Community Grants Fund has received £120,500 from East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) from funding provided by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).

Posted in Development, Home, Leisure, Stay

New mural unveiled in town centre

19th December 2025

World-renowned street artist has unveiled a vibrant new mural in the heart of our town centre.

Peachzz drew inspiration from our Chesterfield Market and our borough’s heritage to create the breathtaking artwork, called Local, which covers the entire side of the Pavements Shopping Centre and welcomes visitors as they enter the marketplace.

Local depicts a selection of objects that reflect what can be found on Chesterfield Market, while also referencing local history. Features include a shire horse, which was once used to collect rubbish from the market, a cattle brass referencing the historic cattle market site, and a pomegranate, which features in the Borough crest. The use of hands aims to evoke the idea of trade.

Peachzz said:

“My concept was to have all these ideas and stories that I’ve heard shown through items that I’d bought from the market, so there are loads of these little stories within it, but overall, it aims to support all these small businesses and traders that make up this town.

“The reception has been amazing. We’ve had no end of people coming and stopping us to say hello and telling us how much they like it. It’s been really heartwarming and encouraging when painting in the rain, but also shows the impact that art pieces have on public spaces.”

Peachzz worked with our local community to develop the concept for the mural, hosting a drop-in session on the Market for members of the public to share their ideas and stories, visiting a local school to hear pupils’ ideas, and speaking to market traders about what they felt the mural should include.

The mural was created using masonry paint to establish the market stall background, followed by layers of spray paint to build up the detailed design. Peachzz employed a “doodle grid” technique – a mapping system that allows designs to be accurately scaled onto large walls. The grid acts as a guide for placing each element and colour, ensuring the finished artwork retains its precision and vibrancy at scale.

The new mural is funded through Chesterfield Borough Council’s Animate Chesterfield programme, which will create new artworks and activities throughout the regeneration projects happening in both Chesterfield and Staveley.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said:

“This is an exceptional piece of artwork which reflects our town’s history but also helps create a new, vibrant welcome for visitors. The mural is already getting a positive reception, with lots of people visiting the town centre to watch its creation. I know it will be a source of inspiration for many of our residents, and they will enjoy seeing this sight for many years to come.”

@steelcitydronepilot

Peachzz is a contemporary street artist from Sheffield. She discovered spray painting in the forgotten industrial sites of the UK and Europe, channelling her creativity into breathing life into walls.

Her work often explores and celebrates themes of nature, life and community, set against the stark concrete of urban spaces. With each mural, she aims to evoke an emotional response and ensure her work feels rooted in its surroundings.

With a storytelling approach, she creates art that resonates with both local communities and visitors. She is an extremely confident painter of large-scale projects. Her style is expressive, with hints of realism, while experimenting with positive themes and a bold colour palette.

Peachzz has travelled with her work all over Europe and has painted as far away as the USA, Colombia, Mexico and the Middle East.

Her mural Reverie in Sheffield was named the second Best Mural in the World 2024 by Street Art Cities.

Animate Chesterfield is being delivered by Beam, a leading cultural development organisation, in collaboration with Chesterfield Borough Council. The programme has included the appointment of an artist in residence to engage residents and visitors with Chesterfield town centre, a Christmas window trail, and further projects are planned, including the creation of a Heritage Arts Trail, a town centre projection mapping project, and a new sculpture for Staveley town centre.

Communities are at the heart of the programme and will shape, influence and participate throughout, ensuring that it is an authentic celebration of the place.

Funding for the public art project was secured through planning agreements as part of the council’s per cent for art scheme, which was part of the previous Local Plan (and now continues voluntarily). The funding must be used for the delivery of public art.

To find out more about the Animate programme, visit: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/animate

Images by @steelcitydronepilot

Posted in Celebrate Chesterfield, Featured, Home, Leisure, Stay, Visiting

New bar brings local beer to Chatsworth Road

17th December 2025

Located on the popular Chatsworth Road, The Outbreak has opened its doors, adding to the area’s growing reputation as a vibrant destination for food, drink and socialising close to our town centre.

The new independent bar, which has been open for five weeks, is owned by the former proprietor of the Real Ale Corner micropub, also located on Chatsworth Road. The bar draws inspiration from Derbyshire’s brewing heritage and a close working relationship with Eyam Brewery.

“I used to own the Real Ale Corner micropub down the other end of Chatsworth Road, and got to know Gervaise at Eyam Brewery through that,” the owner said. “The brewery taps into the plague history of Eyam, with a lot of the beers having plague-themed names. That’s where the name of the bar comes from – The Outbreak tying into the plague theme.”

With a wide selection of both cask and keg options, alongside rotating guest beers and a permanent line of Kasteel Belgian beers. The bar also offers a comprehensive wine list and a selection of spirits.

“There’s also a fantastic wine list and spirits, so something for everyone!” the owner added.

Food plays a key role at The Outbreak, with the kitchen serving freshly made tacos and sides, making it the only venue in Chesterfield specialising in flavourful tacos. This weekend, the bar is also launching a new eating challenge.

“We’re launching an eating challenge this coming weekend – 20 minutes to complete a tray of 12 tacos and a portion of nachos,” the owner said. “Complete it within the time and it’s free, otherwise you pay for it.”

In the run-up to Christmas, The Outbreak plans to open extended hours from Friday 19th to Wednesday 24th, providing an additional option for festive food and drinks in the town.

The venue also features an upstairs space with seating for more than 35 people, which the team hopes will be used by local groups and organisations.

“Our bar has a fantastic upstairs space with seating for 35+,” the owner explained. “It’s a great place to sit and relax, but we also want to make it available to the community for local groups to use. We’re hosting the next local CAMRA meeting on the 8th Jan, for example.”

Looking ahead, The Outbreak is developing a programme of events for 2025, including Meet the Brewer evenings, tasting sessions and a monthly pub quiz.

“Overall, The Outbreak is a great informal space to come for food, local drinks and to socialise!”

For more local independent food and drink venues: www.chesterfield.co.uk/food-and-drink-businesses

Posted in Business, Christmas, Development, Home, Leisure

Chesterfield is once again named happiest place to live in the East Midlands

11th December 2025

Chesterfield has been ranked the happiest place to live in the East Midlands by Rightmove’s 2025 Happy at Home survey.

The annual study asks thousands of people across Great Britain how they feel about where they live. This year, more than 19,500 residents took part, sharing what truly contributes to their everyday happiness.

Rightmove found that the factors most strongly linked to a positive sense of wellbeing are the simple things that make daily life easier, safer and more enjoyable. Green spaces continue to be among the most valued features in the index, offering places to relax, exercise and connect with nature. The study also revealed that people living close to a national park or Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty typically report higher levels of happiness.

Our town continues to stand out as a place where people feel proud to live. Many contributors said that Chesterfield gives them a strong sense of pride, belonging and community. Access to green landscapes remains particularly important, with those living near the Peak District National Park especially likely to report high levels of wellbeing.

Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield Board Member Ryan Wilkes said: “We’re very pleased to see Chesterfield gaining further recognition as a great place to live.”

“As a lifelong resident, it’s fantastic to see our brilliant outdoor spaces, local businesses and community spirit highlighted.

“If you’re looking to live in an area which blends a strong heritage with strong local amenities within easy reach, Chesterfield is a place that you’ll be proud to call home, and that’s without mentioning the abundance of picturesque outdoor spaces on our doorstep!”

Earlier this year, Chesterfield was also named one of the happiest places to live by The Guardian, as well as being recognised as one of the greenest towns in the UK, with over 95% of homes having access to private or nearby outdoor space, including Queens Park, Holmebrook Valley Park, and the Chesterfield Canal. Thanks to its excellent schools, strong community spirit, and access to nature, it also consistently ranks among the best places to raise a family.

The town is seeing new housing developments and regeneration projects, including the Staveley Corridor, Chesterfield Waterside, and Spire Neighbourhood, which will bring more new homes.

Find out more about living in Chesterfield at: www.chesterfield.co.uk/living

Posted in About Chesterfield, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Heritage, Home, Leisure, Stay, Visiting

Discover Peak District adventures from Peak Edge Hotel

9th December 2025

Peak Edge Hotel has announced two new packages designed for visitors seeking active breaks in the Peak District. The family-owned four-star hotel now offers golf breaks in partnership with Stanedge Golf Club and car-free e-bike holidays with PeakePedals. As well as expanding helicopter access for guests.

Stay and Golf Packages

From March, 1^st 2026, guests can book a Stay and Golf package combining overnight accommodation, breakfast, pre-booked tee times at Stanedge Golf Club, and 10% off à la carte dining at the hotel’s Red Lion Restaurant. Stanedge Golf Club is an inclusive 10-hole course with no dress code or handicap requirements, making it ideal for beginners and social players.

Mark Thurman, Managing Director of Peak Edge Hotel, said:

“Golf is a way to enjoy fresh air, spend time together and have fun without feeling intimidated.”

More information: peakedgehotel.co.uk | stanedgegolfclub.co.uk

Stay and Play E-Bike Holidays

PeakePedals has partnered with Peak Edge Hotel to offer guided and self-guided e-bike tours across the Peak District. Packages include half-day and full-day rides, point-to-point routes with luggage transfers, and inclusive options for mixed-ability groups. Bikes can be delivered to the hotel for convenience.

Andrew Talbot, Co-founder of PeakePedals, said:

“These breaks allow visitors to settle into one base and explore the surrounding scenery at their own pace.”

Peak Edge Hotel’s Red Lion Restaurant holds two AA Rosettes and serves local produce from Walton Lodge Farm, including native-breed beef, Dorset lamb, and free-range eggs.

Find more information about short breaks in Chesterfield on the Stay in Chesterfield website.

Helicopter access extended for hotel guests

Peak Edge Hotel has expanded its helicopter landing capacity, increasing from a small number of landing spots to eight dedicated landing spaces on its private grounds. Already popular with pilots and guests flying in for countryside escapes, refined dining and celebrations, the expanded capacity now makes helicopter arrivals easier and more accessible than ever.

The hotel is now listed on SkyDemon, the UK’s leading flight-planning app, enabling pilots to locate, plan and land directly at the hotel with ease.

The upgraded helicopter landing areas sit discreetly within Peak Edge’s grounds, just a few steps from the hotel. With capacity for multiple arrivals each day, they are ideal for:

Wedding parties and VIP guests
Couples marking a special celebration
Destination diners flying in for the 2 AA Rosette Red Lion Restaurant
Corporate guests seeking travel efficiency
Travellers flying cross-country for a scenic Peak District escape

The guest services team coordinates all helicopter arrivals to ensure a smooth, seamless transition from aircraft to check-in.

Mark Thurman, Managing Director at Peak Edge Hotel said:

“Increasing our helicopter capacity is about making it even easier for guests to reach us in a memorable, time-saving and enjoyable way.”

“Whether it’s a bride and groom making a dramatic entrance or a couple enjoying a unique countryside escape, we’re thrilled to offer an arrival that people won’t forget.”

For more information on Peak Edge Hotel, visit peakedgehotel.co.uk

Posted in Home, Leisure, Stay, Visiting

Popular bubble tea store expands to our town centre

3rd December 2025

JoJo’s Bubble Tea, the vibrant Taiwanese-inspired drinks brand with a Western twist, has officially announced the opening of its newest store in Chesterfield’s The Pavements Centre. Renowned for its fruity flavours, signature bubbles, and creative drinks menu, the brand continues to build momentum as it expands into new locations across the region.

Founded by 19-year-old Doncaster-born director Keedan, JoJo’s Bubble Tea first launched in the heart of Doncaster, where it quickly grew into a much-loved local favourite. The brand’s fun, colourful identity and customer-focused approach helped it stand out, creating a loyal following that has supported its journey of steady growth. Now, the team is excited to bring the JoJo’s experience to Chesterfield, marking the next step in its expanding presence.

The new store aims to offer more than just high-quality drinks. At the centre of the brand’s philosophy is a commitment to creating a safe, welcoming, and inclusive space for all individuals. JoJo’s Bubble Tea proudly champions the LGBTQAI+ community and ensures that its stores are fully accessible for disabled customers. Its menu also reflects this inclusive approach, offering vegan and vegetarian alternatives so that everyone can enjoy the flavours and customisations the brand is known for.

“We see big visions for Chesterfield and its community,” says Keedan. “This new location is an exciting chapter for us, and we can’t wait to share our drink culture and inclusive atmosphere with everyone who walks through our doors.”

With its warm and friendly customer service, bold and playful flavour combinations, and a brand ethos centred around positivity and personality, JoJo’s Bubble Tea aims to bring something fresh and uplifting to Chesterfield town centre. The Pavements Centre provides a central, accessible location for the business to connect with both local residents and visitors.

As the team prepares to open its doors, JoJo’s Bubble Tea is looking forward to becoming part of the town’s thriving mix of independent and national retailers. Chesterfield customers can expect a welcoming environment, a colourful menu filled with choice, and a brand built on community values.

www.facebook.com/JoJosChesterfield

Posted in About Chesterfield, Home, Leisure

Local businesses and events celebrate national recognition

2nd December 2025

Our Chesterfield Champions are celebrating success with several businesses shortlisted for the Derbyshire Business Awards 2026 in categories including customer service, sustainability and international growth. Banner Jones Solicitors is also marking a major achievement after winning the Best Innovation Award at the LawNet Awards 2025.

Adding to the excitement, two local events are competing for top honours at the Peak District Derbyshire and Derby Tourism Awards, showcasing the creativity and community spirit that make our region stand out.

These achievements highlight Chesterfield’s growing reputation for innovation and excellence across business and tourism.

Chesterfield champions shortlisted for Derbyshire business awards

East Midlands Chamber is proud to announce the Derbyshire Business Awards 2026, taking place at Pride Park Stadium, Derby on Thursday 26 March 2026. They will celebrate the outstanding achievements and innovation of Derbyshire businesses over the past year.

With finalists announced across 12 diverse categories, from leadership and innovation to digital development and customer service excellence, this prestigious event provides the perfect opportunity to recognise the hard work and success of local businesses. We are excited to see several of our Chesterfield champions shortlisted, highlighting the region’s exceptional talent.

Businesses shortlisted for awards:

Excellence in Customer Service Award

Kranlee Logistics

Green Business of the Year Award

Penny Engineering

Commitment to People Development Award

Kranlee Logistics

Apprentice of the Year Award

Charlie White – Global Brands
Tasha Mills – Paragon Products (UK)

Excellence in International Growth Award

Penny Engineering
Kranlee Logistics

Banner Jones wins Best Innovation Award at the 2025 LawNet Awards

Banner Jones has won the Best Innovation Award at the LawNet Awards 2025 for transforming the conveyancing process with a fully digital, end-to-end solution. Winning the Best Innovation Award, sponsored by Baskerville Drummond, marks a major milestone for Banner Jones.

The firm uses biometric ID checks, AI-powered search reports and interactive digital quote brochures to improve speed and accuracy.

Handling more than 3,500 conveyancing matters annually, Banner Jones identified inefficiencies in the traditional process and introduced a fully digital client journey. Clients can now complete their part of a transaction remotely, without posting or delivering paper documents in person. This transformation has streamlined operations, reduced delays and saved time for both clients and the firm.

Over the past five years, Banner Jones has co-developed bespoke technology with leading providers to ensure the tools are practical, compliant and effective for real-world legal work.

As the first firm in England and Wales to launch an interactive digital quote brochure, Banner Jones has also shared its expertise at industry events. Estate agents and referrers have responded positively, increasing referral volumes by 33 per cent over two years.

Richard Joy, Head of Residential Property, said: “Winning this award reflects years of investment, collaboration and the dedication of our team. Our digital transformation has simplified a complex process for thousands of clients, and we are proud to see this acknowledged nationally.”

Simon Wright, CEO, added: “This award highlights the talent, creativity and commitment of our people. Innovation at Banner Jones isn’t just about technology — it’s about using our knowledge to deliver smarter, faster and more client-focused legal services.”

Chesterfield events shortlisted for tourism awards

Two of Chesterfield’s standout events are in the running for Festival or Event of the Year at the Peak District Derbyshire and Derby Tourism Awards 2026.

Matlock Farm Park and Chatsworth Estate have been recognised for bringing the region’s history, culture and community spirit to life.

The Highland Games at Matlock Farm Park attract visitors with traditional sports, music and family fun. Celebrating Jane Austen transforms Chatsworth Estate into a world of Regency charm and literary celebration.

Both events showcase the creativity and energy that make the areas around Chesterfield a must-visit destination.

Public voting is now open, giving residents and visitors the chance to choose their favourite. The shortlist also includes Y Not Festival, The Greatest Gathering, and Buxton Crescent Heritage Trust’s Georgian Festival.

Voting closes at 23:59 on Sunday 30 November 2025. To cast your vote visit: visitengland

The winners will be announced at the awards ceremony in Spring 2026, celebrating the very best of Derbyshire’s festivals and events.

Mortgage 1st shortlisted twice at MoneyAge Mortgage Awards 2026

Mortgage 1st has been shortlisted in two categories at the MoneyAge Mortgage Awards 2026.

The firm is a finalist for Broker Firm of the Year (11–50 Advisers), recognising its work in supporting homebuyers across the UK. It has also been shortlisted for Overall Broker of the Year, competing alongside some of the largest names in the industry.

Founded in Chesterfield, Mortgage 1st has grown steadily over the years, offering independent mortgage advice and personalised support to help clients find the right deals for their needs. The team said it was proud to be included among the finalists.

The awards ceremony will take place in February 2026 in London.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Development, Home, Leisure

Exciting new food vendor coming to The Batch House

21st November 2025

Local food lovers have something new to enjoy: Butcher & Catch, the acclaimed Yorkshire-based Meat House and Seafood Bar, is opening at The Batch House.

Since opening in 2021, The Batch House based on Whittington Moor has quickly become a hub for food and social gatherings in Chesterfield. It is part of The Glass Yard, the wider redevelopment of the historic Chesterfield Glass Works, a landmark of the town’s industrial heritage. The Glass Yard now combines artisan food vendors, bars, and creative spaces, with The Batch House serving as a key part of this lively scene.

Butcher & Catch already delights customers in Sheffield, where its stall at the award-winning Cutlery Works Food Hall in Kelham Island serves an innovative and hearty menu. Now, the team is bringing their signature dishes to Chesterfield, promising a dining experience that is both unique and perfectly suited to the Batch House family of vendors.

Highlights of the menu include the Soft-Shell Crab Roll, celebrated for its playful and fresh flavors. Meat lovers can enjoy the Signature Meat Tray, which features local produce such as Pipers Artisan Sausage and Moss Valley baby back ribs. Traditionalists will appreciate proper Fish & Chips with mushy peas—a perfect choice on home match days.

Moreover, Butcher & Catch will keep things exciting with regular specials and a loyalty rewards scheme, ensuring that customers always have something new to try.

“Our feast-like food has already caught the eye of many Chesterfield customers, and we think that our menu offers something different but fits well within the Batch House family of food vendors.”

The Chesterfield stall is expected to open within the next few weeks, and the team encourages locals to follow them on Facebook and Instagram for updates.

With its mix of fresh seafood, hearty meats, and inventive dishes, Butcher & Catch looks set to become a must-visit spot for anyone exploring The Batch House.

Posted in Business, Home, Leisure

Explore our heritage this Christmas

7th November 2025

Delve into our charming historic sites this festive season as they come alive with twinkling lights, seasonal cheer, and stories from the past.

Drawn to our magical Christmas markets? Looking for historic halls decked in festive finery? Or simply seeking a memorable day out steeped in tradition? Our historic places offer a unique way to celebrate. Discover events, architecture, and experiences that blend the spirit of Christmas with centuries of our town’s rich history.

Chesterfield Speciality Markets

Chesterfield’s markets have been at the heart of our town for centuries, bringing together local traders and visitors. This festive season, we unveil a fresh new look as part of the Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield project, while still preserving the traditions that make them so special.

Stroll through our town centre and explore a vibrant mix of stalls, from local produce and artisan crafts to festive treats. Music lovers can dig through vinyl and memorabilia at the Chesterfield Record Fair, while the Vegan Market serves up delicious plant-based delights. The Artisan Market is ideal for finding unique, handcrafted gifts.

Don’t miss the special market day that kicks off the annual Christmas Lights Switch On – a magical celebration that brings the whole town together.

Barrow Hill roundhouse

A treat for history and railway enthusiasts, Barrow Hill Roundhouse is the last surviving operational railway roundhouse in Britain.

Usually closed during the winter, this year it opens its doors for a few festive days on the 13th and the 14th of December for the final museum open weekend and train running day of the year. Visitors can explore the site’s rich heritage, historic engines and tracks in an atmospheric setting.

Haddon Hall

Step back in time at Haddon Hall, one of England’s finest medieval manor houses. Dating back to the 12th century, Haddon Hall is renowned for its authentic historic charm and stunning interiors.

During the festive season, the hall is beautifully decorated, offering visitors a chance to experience a traditional Christmas in a historic setting. Highlights include the Mercatum Christmas Artisan Market, featuring over 180 talented makers offering the best in luxury gifts and seasonal delights.

Reproduced with the kind permission of Haddon Hall

The Crooked Spire

No festive trip is complete without a visit to the Crooked Spire of St Mary and All Saints Church – the largest church in Derbyshire and a true Chesterfield icon.

This Christmas, the church once again hosts the Festival of Christmas Trees, where schools, groups and local people decorate dozens of themed trees. New this year, an immersive light and sound show will fill the church with colour, music and festive magic.

Chatsworth House

Chatsworth House transforms into a winter wonderland, with its grand architecture, landscaped gardens, and festive decorations. Home to the Dukes of Devonshire for over 500 years, it’s a must-visit during the Christmas period.

This year’s theme, The Enchanted Garden, invites visitors to discover the quiet beauty and hidden magic of the nature in midwinter. Outside, the Christmas market features over 100 stalls, live music, seasonal food and festive drinks.

Courtesy of Chatsworth House Trust’ DPC Photography

Hardwick Hall

Built by Elizabethan heiress Bess of Hardwick, Hardwick Hall is known for its towering windows and ornate interiors.

This festive season, the hall comes alive with Hardwick Wintertide. The theme, The Tale of Misrule and the Holly King, brings a playful twist, with stories, performances, and decorations throughout. You can also enjoy hands-on workshops, from wreath-making to historic embroidery, or attend enjoy late-night openings with mulled wine and glowing gardens.

Bolsover Castle

Explore the romantic ruins of Bolsover Castle, standing proudly above the Derbyshire countryside.

This Christmas, the castle once again hosts the Bolsover Lantern Parade, one of the UK’s biggest and longest-running light processions. Organised by Junction Arts, the parade has lit up the town since 1994, with hundreds of handmade lanterns and thousands of spectators. The night before, experience Bright Winter Nights, an immersive light show inside the castle walls, celebrating 30 years of lantern-making through light, sound, and local stories.

Renishaw Hall

Set among beautiful gardens and woodland, Renishaw Hall is a hidden gem for heritage lovers. Dating back to the late 17th century, it has been home to the Sitwell family for generations.

During the festive season, the house and gardens are illuminated with magical lights, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for family visits or romantic, winter walks.

To discover more magical events and things to do this festive period, visit the Chesterfield Christmas website.

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